The Ziggurat II, London EC1N

Positioned in the heart of Clerkenwell, this bright, well-configured fifth-floor apartment is within the Ziggurat, a striking art deco building constructed in the 1930s. Formerly a printworks, the building was converted into flats in 1997 by ORMS architects. It was one of the first loft conversions in Clerkenwell and has since become one of London's most recognised and sought-after residential buildings.



The Building



The Ziggurat takes its name from the Mesopotamian pyramid-like structures, its distinctive white exterior spanning several terraced storeys. Built in the 1930s, it has become something of an art deco landmark in Clerkenwell, retaining many original features such as exposed concrete ceilings and columns, sandblasted brickwork and stainless steel-clad walls in the entrance lobby.



The Tour



This apartment is on the fifth floor, accessed via a lift or stairs. There is a day porter at the entrance to the building, and the communal areas are very well maintained.



Entry to the apartment is to its open, spacious living area, a versatile room that can accommodate dining and seating zones. The ceiling is three metres high and gives the apartment a wonderful sense of volume. A wall of bookshelves lies on one side, and two original windows draw in plenty of light. Striking concrete forms, almost abstract in their sculptural quality, are reminders of the building’s period. Pale Canadian Maple flooring keeps the space feeling light and airy.



The kitchen and island occupy their own slightly set-back space; here, grey porcelain-tiled floor, white cabinetry, butcher block countertops have been added, and glass open shelving maximises space. Appliances are integrated and include a Bosch induction stove and range, fridge and freezer, and a Miele dishwasher.



A sleeping space lies between the entrance hall and the living room, with generous built-in storage. Another large store lies next to the kitchen. The bathroom has a crisp feel, with white and grey porcelain tiles and traditionally styled fittings. It has a generous Villeroy & Bosch bath and shower, and a washing machine is neatly hidden away in the utility cupboard.



There are parking spaces available to rent in the residents-only garage in the basement, as well as a guest parking space that can be booked in advance.



The Area



Popular with architects and design studios, the neighbourhood is renowned for the quality and variety of its bars, pubs and restaurants, most notably the nearby Quality Chop House, St. John, Luca and Moro. Exmouth Market, Shoreditch, Covent Garden and Soho are all nearby.



Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Barbican Centre, Tate Modern, and St. Paul’s Cathedral are within easy reach. Smithfield Market, which is currently under development into a Covent Garden Style Piazza and will include the new Museum of London, is set to open this year.



Farringdon station (Circle, Metropolitan and Hammersmith & City, Elizabeth lines and National Rail) is approximately five minutes’ walk from the apartment and provides quick access to the West End and London’s major airports. Chancery Lane and Barbican stations are also within walking distance. Excellent bus routes run to central, north and south London from near the apartment.



Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: approx. 96 years remaining / Service Charge: approx £2,467 per annum / Ground Rent: approx. £300 per annum / Council Tax Band: D